Monday, 18 December 2017

‘I’ll be there.’
‘Are you sure? I don’t want…’
‘Shush, I said I will be there. See you soon. I love you.’

Maxi placed her phone in her bag and looked out of the window. It was Christmas Eve, the sun was setting and the sky had assumed a beautiful pink tinge, looking serene. Her eyes traced a couple of flakes of snow as they settled on the sill in front of her. It was going to be a long journey and the forecast was not looking good. Still, she had promised. At the last minute she tossed a cosy blanket into the boot of her car and picked up the flask of coffee that was waiting on the side. She pulled her faux fur lined boots over her tights and zipped her padded coat all the way up to her chin. As she locked her front door her neighbour was pulling into their drive and gave a cheery wave. Maxi smiled and returned the wave before slipping into her car, shutting the door behind her.

Twenty minutes later she was happily trundling along in her little car, the roads were slowly getting quieter as people were reaching their destination, but the snow was appearing to get heavier and cars were driving slower, in keeping with the weather conditions. Within what felt like seconds, Maxi hit a blizzard, how quickly the weather had changed. She just needed to make it up the steep hill but the cars in front had come to a standstill and nothing appeared to be coming in the opposite direction. In frustration, she struck her steering wheel.

‘Come on!’

She checked the time on the car’s display, she had just fifteen minutes to get to the station, park her car and make it onto the platform. Becoming aware of some movement at the top of the hill, she watched as a car inched its way down, she looked on as the face in the window was one of sheer terror, she could see tears falling down the face as the woman struggled to keep control of her car. Maxi watched helplessly as the car disappeared down the hill, she crossed her fingers tightly, hoping the woman made it safely to her destination. Finally the cars were on the move, the one immediately in front, however, remained rooted to the spot, its wheels spinning furiously. Maxi pondered what to do, she had to keep moving. Could she attempt to drive around the car? She had no choice but to at least try. She steered slowly and pressed down on the pedal but now her wheels were spinning too, damn the car in front. If only she hadn’t attempted to go around.

Maxi tried again and again but each time her wheels just spun, incapable of gripping the road surface. After a few times a nasty odour permeated her car, she wondered what damage she had done to her clutch. She gave the pedal one final push and to her delight and surprise a miracle occurred, her wheels stuck to the road allowing her to overtake the car blocking her path. She was back on her way, it was going to be tight but she could do this. She drove slowly and steadily. Thankfully the rest of the route was on flat ground and things were at least moving. As she passed the bus station, she could see that the buses were stacked up, neither able to leave or enter the station.

‘Oh no please, I am so close!’ Maxi willed the bus in front to turn in, leaving her way clear, it didn’t, instead it pulled in to the bus stop to the side allowing her to overtake.

‘Okay, I am almost there,’ she muttered to no one in particular as she grabbed the first available parking space.

Grateful for her super sensible, warm, snow boots, she confidently made her way across the carpark. Smiling to herself she pulled along her overnight bag behind her and climbed the stairs. Listening carefully as she went to the announcement that was being made.

‘We regret to inform you that all trains at this station have been cancelled until further notice. We apologise for the inconvenience.’

‘What? No. This can’t be happening.’

Maxi ran down the steps back to the ticket hall. A staff member was fielding enquiries but he seemed to have no answers, as far as he was informed no trains were running in the near vicinity. The weather to blame.

There was only one thing for it, she would have to make the journey by car. As she retraced her steps across the carpark, the icy, arctic like wind bit the tip of her nose, her fingers fast draining of feeling. The snow was coming down thick and fast now, she would have to hurry before the roads got clogged. Maxi wiped off the snow that had already left a thick layer on her windscreen and repeated the exercise on her windows. As she was about to turn on the engine, she heard a tap on her window. Jumping up in surprise she saw a friendly face peering through the window at her. It was Tom, her neighbour.

‘You won’t be going anywhere in this. Can I offer you a lift anywhere?’

‘Tom, what are you doing here?’

‘Happens every time, the snow comes down catching people by surprise. Trains are always cancelled, delayed, whatever. Seeing as I have got the truck, I came down here to see if I could lend a helping hand.’

‘A knight in shining armour, huh?’

He grinned and for the first time Maxi noticed his perfect, white teeth.

‘Something like that. So where are you off to?’

‘Oh no, it’s fine. I am going away for a few days. I just need to find another train to get.’ Maxi started tapping into her search engine optimistically. ‘Why don’t you go and see if anyone else needs some help?’

‘The way things are out there, you won’t be going very far. Trust me. Where do you need to get to? Let me help. Please?’

Maxi frowned as she looked at her phone, Tom was right. Her plan to head to another train station was thwarted. There really were no trains listed. She sighed, admitting defeat.

‘Well, I really need to get to BlinkstonVillage, but I guess you won’t want to drive there.’

‘Ooh it’s nice down there. Really nice. But what’s the urgency? Why don’t you wait until tomorrow when things have cleared?’

Maxi was feeling a bit annoyed by Tom’s constant questioning. What was it to him?

‘Look don’t worry. I’ll find a way.’

She turned the key. It might take her all night, but she would make it. But her car refused to start, its pathetic moans and groans complaining of the cold.

‘Hey, little miss mysterious. I didn’t say I wouldn’t do it.’ He opened her car door, offering his hand.‘Come on, let’s get going. And if the weather improves I can always drop you off at a station. How does that sound?’

Maxi noticed that the snow had already covered her windscreen again, she didn’t really have any other option, Tom was being exceptionally kind under the circumstances.

‘Okay,’ she relented.

Making herself comfortable in Tom’s SUV, Maxi had to admit it was a much better option than struggling through the snow in her small, old heap of a car. They seemed to ease through the roads with very little effort. He switched the radio on and to her delight it was a station playing Country music. She was itching to sing along but feeling embarrassed she tapped her thigh instead. Tom glanced at her, he had noticed she seemed to like this music. He wondered if she liked it as much as him.

‘You like Country and Western?’

Maxi nodded. ‘Mmm yes very much so.’

‘You should come see my band. We play Thursday nights at OutbackWest.'

'I didn't know you were in a band?'

Tom smiled.

'Guess there is a lot you don't know about me.'

Maxi returned the smile before turning and looking straight in the direction they were heading. She didn't want to appear rude so felt she owed an explanation.

'I get terribly carsick as a passenger.'

Maxi was a little alarmed at the sights as they made their way out of the town and onto the motorway. She had never seen so many abandoned cars, admittedly, she would normally refuse to drive if the weather was too bad, but it was still quite a shock.

Once they were on the motorway, conditions were a lot better, with the traffic flowing. Every so often Maxi, battling against her car sickness, forced herself to look down at her phone, checking to see if the trains had begun to run again. But it seemed like they had called it a night as nothing was showing.

'At this rate we will make up any time lost, we will be there in no time.' Tom said brightly.

He tossed his floppy, sandy coloured hair away from his deep brown eyes in one adept flick.

Maxi felt a little pang of regret in the pit of her stomach, she was rather enjoying this little adventure with Tom. Chatting away they had already learnt so much about each other. It was true, time really did fly when you were having fun. And he was so handsome, with his well defined chin and chiselled cheekbones, how had she never noticed this before?

Maxi took a long sip of her hot coffee before offering it to Tom, who gratefully accepted. The three hour drive felt much shorter as they shared the coffee and tore open a packet of chocolate biscuits. At times she could feel herself drifting off from the warmth of the SUV and she snuggled into her blanket. A couple of times she allowed herself to succumb to sleep, other times she jerked awake, conscious she had to tell Tom the way.

As they hit Blinkston Village, the snow was still falling but melting as it landed, the roads were pretty clear with no sign of any traffic problems. Tom glanced over at Maxi, as she turned to meet his gaze, her glossy black, poker straight, fringe moved just enough to reveal stunning, crystal blue eyes. Her high cheekbones were flushed with a soft peachy pink shade as if they had just been pinched and her rosebud lips fell into a natural, pretty pout.

Tom too felt sad that he would shortly be dropping Maxi off at her destination. He had long admired her from afar but had never had the courage to say more than just a hello or goodbye. He glanced up at the sky and thanked god that the heavens had been kind to him tonight. The snow had provided him with the perfect opportunity to spend time with her and now he didn't want the evening to end.

'If you turn left, it's the first house on the right.'

'Are you going to tell me who you are here to see?' Tom chuckled as the car came to a stop outside a chocolate box house. 'Or is it still a secret?'

'It's a secret!' Maxi replied as she jumped out of the car, heading to the boot to pick up her bag.

Tom flew out after her and took her by the hand, making Maxi's stomach leap with butterflies.

'Maxi, I don't want this to be goodbye. Come knock for me when you get back.' He leant in and kissed her softly on the lips, before stepping back again.

Tom's stomach was in knots too, he hoped he had read the signals correctly. Maxi pressed her lips together and breathed in deeply and smiled. She reached forward and gave him a hug, sending electricity shooting through them both.

'Thank you Tom, I really appreciate this. I hope you have a safe and quick journey home'

She watched as he got back into the SUV before turning the key and entering the house. Before she closed the door, Maxi watched as Tom drove off into the distance, back to his home.

Maxi spotted a light at the back of the house and made her way there, a figure was sitting in a rocking chair hunched over the log fire, the sound of clicking knitting needles echoed around the room. The heart shaped, lined face turned to her, with the happiest of smiles.

'Maxi, you made it. And in this weather! I told you to stay home darling. I would have been okay.'

*If you enjoyed this short story you may like to check out my new novel 'Without A Hitch' A modern romantic comedy about 3 brides united in their quest for the perfect wedding. It is available to buy now on Amazon as an ebook or paperback.

Thursday, 23 November 2017

The Monster In The Cupboard
‘Quick, just stuff it all in the cupboard!’ Jess ordered.

Harry had begun the mammoth and ritualistic task of cleaning just moments before the guests were due. The living room was a state, packed full of possessions and clutter that had long failed to find a permanent home. Harry spotted Amelie running up the garden path and swooped on his precious antique clock. Just in time.

What’s in there?’ Amelie threatened to reveal the mess.

Harry darted over, grabbed the furry hood of Jess’s coat and poked it through the tiny gap.

‘A monster!’

Amelie screamed and ran. Disaster averted.

Hope you enjoyed this story
Bettina x

Many thanks to Rochelle for this week's prompt AND photo. If you want to read more stories based on this picture - click here

If you enjoyed this story you may enjoy my new novel 'Without A Hitch' which is available to buy now -

Tuesday, 21 November 2017

Back with some beauty reviews that is, I have some fabulous products coming up that I am simply itching to share with you.

First up is the Collection Primed & Ready Make Up Fixing Spray Matte

Product claims -

Stay selfie ready with Primed & Ready make up fixing spray. The lightweight mist will help prolong make-up wear for a natural matte finish.

My thoughts
I was actually blown away by how effective this fixing spray is and it is such good value!

Does exactly what it promises. You must close your eyes before spraying at a distance of 10cm. At first makeup looks fresh and dewy, that will be because it is damp ;) but then for the rest of the day your makeup will stay perfectly in place and as fresh as the minute you applied it. When I do the school run I normally have to reapply my cheek products and sometimes my foundation for the afternoon school run. I apply my makeup at 7.30am. The first time I used the Collection Primed & Ready Make Up Fixing Spray I was amazed, upon checking the mirror at 2.30pm, that my makeup was still exactly as I had applied it in the morning.

Wednesday, 18 October 2017

Here is this week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt

Photo credit @ Sandra Crook

The Loving Tree

‘I love you Charlotte,’ Austin whispered as he held her tiny hand in his.
Charlotte beamed in delight. ‘Why don’t we carve our initials in the tree, as a symbol of our everlasting love?’
Austin pulled back in horror at the suggestion. ‘What? Why would we do that?’
Charlotte’s face crumpled in disappointment. ‘You don’t really love me, do you?’

Austin couldn’t believe what he was hearing, why would anyone want to harm a tree? Cutting its bark would allow a gateway for pathogens. He was quite disgusted in Charlotte. No, she was right, he couldn’t love her, not now.

Hope you enjoyed this story
Bettina x

Many thanks to Rochelle for this week's prompt. If you want to read more stories based on this picture - click here

Thursday, 12 October 2017

Having Afternoon Tea is one of my favourite things as regular readers of BeautySwot.com well know, so I was absolutely delighted to find that one of my birthday gifts was Afternoon Tea for Two at The Ritz.

Being The Ritz, we had to book a couple of months in advance and even then one of the few slots we were able to get was the last sitting on a Monday afternoon. So, in early September, off we went all dressed up, the tall blonde one in his suit and tie, me in a little black dress and patent heels, ready to enjoy the sumptuous treat awaiting us.

The first thing to note was the delightful, cheerful and friendly doorman who greeted us on our arrival. It really is the little touches that put a smile on your face. We made our way to the Palm Court where Afternoon Tea is served, and were shown to our table - you can see just how exquisite a setting it is from the photo above.

It was then time to choose our teas to accompany the Traditional Afternoon Tea -

I opted for the 'house' tea - The Ritz Royal English and after the sandwiches I tried The Rose Congou to enjoy with my scones and cakes - both equally delicious and delicate, neither needing milk or sugar to enjoy.

We had advised, when booking, that one of the party was dairy free and they brought separate sandwiches for the blonde one and explained the difference.

There was nothing surprising about the sandwich fillings on reading the menu, the offering pretty standard, but the colourful array of sandwiches were fresh, generously sized and decidedly moreish so we enjoyed a second serving!

Ham with Grain Mustard Mayonnaise on Sliced Brioche Cheddar Cheese with Chutney on Tomato Bread Cucumber with Cream Cheese, Dill and Chives on Granary Bread Chicken Breast with Parsley Cream on Malt Bread Scottish Smoked Salmon with Lemon Butter on Sourdough Bread Egg Mayonnaise with Chopped Shallots and Watercress on White Bread
These were then followed up by -Freshly Baked Raisin and Plain Scones
with Cornish Clotted Cream and Strawberry Preserve
Assortment of British Afternoon Tea Pastries and Cake

The scones were served warm and the blonde one received a separate dairy free batch which he said were most delicious. He was also brought his own separate plate of pastries which he appreciated and endlessly gushed about how tasty it all was... I couldn't disagree, the sweets were bitesize and the perfect balance of sweetness, fruitiness and a satisfying chocolate/coffee hit. I did enjoy the alcohol laced profiterole which was light and fluffy and creamy on the inside ...mmmm! These all really hit the spot. Just when we felt we could eat no more, a waiter came around with a cake trolley offering a slice of cake, well who were we to say no.... I enjoyed the exotic fruit sponge, foregoing the chocolate one and one final time they offered the blonde one a dairy free option.

Afternoon Tea is deceptively filling, best enjoyed on an empty stomach. We had two waiters during the afternoon and found the service to be attentive and friendly throughout.

We really enjoyed our afternoon at The Ritz. The Afternoon Tea was exceptional, it was leisurely, relaxing and The Palm Court was wonderfully opulent but not at all stuffy. The guests ranged from young to old, parties of women, couples and families, all appearing to enjoy this very traditional British pastime.

I have heard that some guests feel rushed at The Ritz ( bookings are allocated 90 minutes, which I feel is ample time) but this could be at busier and more popular times of the year and times in the afternoon. We certainly didn't feel rushed and the last setting of the day was a good choice as it served as dinner for us.

Before leaving we were given a book about Afternoon Tea and I couldn't resist having my photo taken with the pianist who had been playing live music throughout.

I am delighted to announce the release of my second novel 'Without A Hitch' which is out now and available on Amazon to buy. I am planning to release the paperback version shortly so watch this space!

The book is a fictional tale about three brides-to-be who are planning their dream weddings but find that however organised they are, there is nothing they can do when fate intervenes... Sienna, Agnes and Bryony experience the highs and lows of planning a wedding. Will it all come together on their Wedding Day? Find out in this heartwarming, contemporary romantic comedy.

Wednesday, 20 September 2017

Mandy picked up the trainers from the back of the cupboard. She wiped away at a tiny section, hidden
under the thick dusty silvery coating, their original colour was revealed.

A keen runner back then, until the day she was raped. She
couldn’t wear them after that, too many reminders, and yet she couldn’t bear to
throw them away. Studied hard instead, carving a career as a criminal lawyer.

She placed them in the removals box.

‘Mum, why are you taking
these?’ Poppy curled her lip in disgust.

‘To remind me of just how far I have come.’ Mandy smiled.

Hope you enjoyed this

Bettina x

Many thanks to Rochelle for this week's prompt. If you want to read more stories based on this picture - click here

Wednesday, 6 September 2017

The End Of The World
Millie clutched her throat, with only a single drop of water left in her flask she had to make it last. Her wavy blonde hair was matted, caked in blood and dust. Left for dead, that was some blow to her head.
She had been afraid of taking a gap year but Frederique had convinced her to go. She had trusted him, this was how she had been repaid.
She glanced around, her vision hazy, it was like the end of the world. In the distance the mountain glowed, whispering ‘Not the end, the beginning.’ She had to make it.
Hope you liked it
Bettina x

*With thanks to Rochelle for this week's picture prompt. If you wish to read more 100 word stories - click here

Wednesday, 30 August 2017

With the sun shining and the sky clear, it was a beautiful day to go exploring. Jenny appreciated Martha’s skill in seeking out historic ruins, and this one was indeed quite a stunning spot to enjoy their summer picnic. Jenny’s eyes started streaming, the sensation of grit spoiling her fun, this was swiftly followed by an itch in her nose, culminating in incessant sneezing. She knew this grass would be trouble. Hayfever.

‘Apparently this was a smallpox hospital.’

‘What, you mean it wasn’t a castle?’

Martha howled with laughter ‘NO!’

Jenny clutched her churning stomach, feverish she began to hallucinate.

Hope you enjoyed this story

Bettina x

*Thanks to Rochelle as always for the picture prompt. If you would like to read more stories based on this picture prompt click here

Thursday, 17 August 2017

Flash Fiction - Psycho
My heart is pounding, my breath quickens as panic sets in. I race up the stairs, he follows a few steps behind. I don’t dare look back, he won’t have the satisfaction of seeing the fear in my eyes. I lock the door and collapse in a heap. I am in my safe place. I look around and the irony is not lost on me. Safe, in the shower room.

‘Open up Mel,’ he punches the door with each word. Anger reverberates.

I punch out the number of the emergency services. He won’t get away with this. Not this time.

Hope you enjoyed this story.

Bettina x

Thanks Rochelle for this picture prompt - if you want to read more stories based on the prompt, click here

Thursday, 10 August 2017

After a long and testing walk they had finally found the rock Tom had played on as a child.

Lizzie looked in disgust at the rock, batting away the flies. The rock in the picture that Tom was holding, was perfect, this had not stood the test of time. Full of holes and infested with beetles it was not a pretty sight.

Had Tom really taken the time to get to know Lizzie he would have never brought her camping. Like the rock, their marriage had once been beautiful but now, it was just not worth saving.

Hope you enjoyed this story

Bettina x

Thanks Rochelle for this picture prompt - if you want to read more stories based on the prompt, click here

Thursday, 8 June 2017

Well this is me aged forty. I have spent my 39th year worrying about reaching this significant age... Forty just sounded old to me. Certain ages are to be embraced, forty to be feared. Or does it?

Reaching twenty, well I felt all grown up - it also coincided with being at University, enjoying some of the best times of my life. Travelling all over the world and well being carefree. Good times.

Thirty - Aged twenty five I met the love of my life. By thirty, I was married - about to have my first son, we also had a mortgage and work consumed 5 days of the week. Travel still played a major part of our lives.

By the end of my 39th year, I had stepped off the traditional work ladder. We welcomed a second son into our lives. I started a beauty and afternoon tea blog which brought me so many opportunities, more than I could have imagined. At the age of 38 I achieved a lifelong ambition - I published my first novel. Although I had planned to have my second novel released before I was forty, life had other plans. It is going to be shortly released so watch this space!

The opportunity to travel and explore the world is still there, albeit with a lot more luggage to take with us.

Forty

Yet today, as I am a day over forty, I realise that actually nothing has changed. I may be a year older but I am still the same person. I have a few wrinkles, grey hairs and laughter lines, but that is me. It tells my story. I am grateful to have reached such a milestone age. A few of my friends sadly didn't.

I will embrace opportunities sent my way. I will actively pursue new opportunities. I will never take my health for granted. I will adore and cherish those I have been blessed to have around me. There will be ups, there will be downs but most of all... there is life.

Thursday, 1 June 2017

The originalElemis Pro-Collagen Marine Creamis one of my favourite facial moisturisers so I am delighted that Elemis have introduced the same cream now with added SPF30. It has the same delicious scent of the original which I adore. The cream is still light in texture, almost fluid like and is silky to the touch. I couldn't tell any difference which I think is great.

Elemis say
This clinically proven formulation blends a powerful combination of ingredients, including Padina Pavonica and Ginkgo Biloba, shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in 14 days*. With hydration increased, elasticity and suppleness appear improved and the skin looks firm and toned.

A next generation micronized sunscreen offers a unique encapsulated blend that leaves no white streaks on the face and offers evenly distributed broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection without compromise to the texture of the cream.

Wednesday, 24 May 2017

Getting Beachy feels everytime I use Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Collection. The newly reformulated range features new products and four restorative marine blends and a new hero ingredient of anti-oxidant rich Green Seaweed Extract. Marine Goddess here I come!Crabtree & Evelyn say
The La Source collection draws inspiration from the restorative powers of the sea around us, and is carefully designed to restore, condition and rejuvenate the skin from head to toe. Formulated with a blend of ingredients such as underwater algae, mineral salts and seaweeds the products in this collection allow you to escape everyday life and immerse yourself in spa-like rituals.

My thoughts

I absolutely adore the scent - fresh and Summery. It lends itself so well to the products in the range and there is a whole host of products for top to toe. I was sent a few bits from the range to review and have definitely fallen in love with this uplifting, feel good collection. Oh, and of course, all the products have that all important bathroom shelf appeal. A huge thumbs up from me.

One of my favourite products in the range, the body scrub is smooth and creamy with enough grittiness to do its job of exfoliating, leaving skin smooth. Contains a refreshing marine blend of green seaweed extract and purifying brown algae extract.

La Source Ultra-Moisturising Hand Therapy 25g £8

Moisturising, softening and leaves hands smelling great, what's not to love about the classic hand therapy hand cream? Features the restorative marine blend of anti-oxidant-rich green seaweed extract and protecting red sea algae. The hydrating power of hyaluronic acid and ceramides contribute to improve the skin’s natural moisture barrier. I notice an instant plumpness and improvement in my hands condition as soon as I apply.

La Source Triple Milled Soap 100g £7

For those of you who like traditional soap there is one in this range, with all the goodness of shea butter and mineral skin loving properties from the collection, this is a bather's dream.

La Source Eau De Toilette 100ml £37

And finally, we get to my absolute favourite item in the range - the EDT. I have worn this every day since receiving my package. In Spring/Summer I suffer terribly with hayfever and scents irritating my delicate nose. La Source EDT however is a revelation in scent terms - it is light, refreshing, Summery and oceanic. Does anyone remember Oceanus? It's similar-ish to this beautiful scent.

Eau La Source is described in the following way -

Take your senses on a journey with the new Eau de La Source® Eau de Toilette, featuring a delicate marine accord and our antioxidant-rich Green Seaweed Extract. Experience the tranquillity of deserted shores as the spa-like scent of crisp ocean breezes, marine aromas and clean citrus notes soothes your soul and revitalises your spirit. Golden notes of amber evoke the warmth of rich sunsets, while Petitgrain and Basil bring to mind far-flung beach destinations.

Marine aromas and clean citrus notes

Golden notes of amber complemented with petitgrain and basil

Eau de toilette strength

Perfect daytime fragrance

Literally transports me to the sea. I adore it! The husband also likes it so it's a win win.

Thursday, 18 May 2017

Invisible
Six o’clock on the dot. Week in, week out, he would arrive dressed in a suit. Taking his usual seat, by the window at the front, he would wait. She would arrive shortly after, five past six to be precise. Pretty, not a hair out of place. Her lipstick, a coral shade setting off her baby blue eyes. He would stand to greet her, warmly. Taking her arm he would lead her to the hotel next door. Working late he said. Lying. I watched most days, invisible, from the back of the diner. My husband, his mistress.

Hope you enjoyed this story

Bettina x

With thanks to Rochelle for the picture prompt as always. If you wish to read more stories based on this prompt, click here .

Wednesday, 19 April 2017

Born on a Tuesday, Melody Grace Edwards was destined for great
things her mother proudly declared. As soon as she could walk she was signed up
to ballet classes. Her grandmother, herself a famous dancer, died soon after
she was born leaving Melody her dancing shoes and an exquisite case for use as a
future performance prop.

At her first public performance aged three, Melody
excitedly took to the stage to showcase what she had learnt. It was then, with
horror, that realisation set in. The child, an unmitigated disaster, lacked any
grace or coordination. Swan Lake she was not.

Hope you enjoyed this story

Bettina x

*Monday's child is fair of face,
Tuesday's child is full of grace,
Wednesday's child is full of woe,
Thursday's child has far to go,
Friday's child is loving and giving,
Saturday's child works hard for a living,
But the child who is born on the Sabbath day
Is bonnie and blithe and good and gay.

With thanks to Rochelle for the picture prompt as always. If you wish to read more stories based on this prompt, click here .

Thursday, 13 April 2017

Alan gazed forlornly at his four cheese pizza and bottle of red and sighed, stood up again. Online dating was not going well. Pizza was his favourite meal, the red wine he had been saving for a special occasion. The search for love would continue tomorrow, tonight he would enjoy the feast.

Devouring his pizza, he was rather annoyed when the doorbell rang. He stomped to the door, oil dripping down his chin. His annoyance turned to delight at the visitor before him. She had come after all.

‘Hope I am not too late?’

He grinned ‘I’ll grab my coat’

Hope you enjoyed it!

Bettina x

With thanks to Rochelle for another great picture prompt - if you wish read more stories using this prompt - click here

Wednesday, 12 April 2017

*note - although this can be read as a standalone piece, it goes alongside this original piece Unbelievable

The Detective shook his head, he didn’t get it. Two missing
people in a matter of weeks. He inspected the evidence – unfinished pizza, a
bottle of red, tell-tale single glass. Beauty clutter on the dressing table, a torch,
a watch neatly placed. Why would anyone eat
in the bedroom when they had a balcony with views people paid good money for?

‘You been drinking Marion? When are you going to learn?’

Marion could scarcely breathe in the closet, barely audible
her muffled cries letting him know of her existence. She watched, despairing as
he left. Here we go again.

Hope you enjoyed it!
Bettina x

With thanks to Rochelle for another great picture prompt - if you wish read more stories using this prompt - click here

Thursday, 6 April 2017

The latest bathing collection from Mandara Spa puts the treat into retreat. Called Oriental Retreat , it's the most delicious smelling range - with Cedarwood and Sweet Orange, it really is the most perfect blend of sweet and spice. Personally I find it to be quite a unisex scent and the husband happily agrees with me.

Mandara Spa are renowned for bringing the spa experience into your home and this new collection does not disappoint, it feels and smells far more luxurious than the price tag suggests. Oriental Retreat transports your mind and body to exotic Eastern Climes, a gorgeously sensual experience, the scent is warming, sweet and calming. All the range has been created to pamper, relax and unwind.

The Honey Bath £10 500ml
smells slightly sweeter than the shower gel thanks to the inclusion of the honey, is really conditioning on the skin and imparts the scent across the bathroom so giving your senses the Oriental experience too. You won't want to leave the bath once you have immersed yourself in the warm, bubble filled water! Contains Moisturising acacia honey, softening rice oil, indulgent Oriental orchid extract, and fragrant cedarwood oil, sweet orange and cumin.

The Beauty Oil £7.50ml

is a multi-purpose body oil with the same delicious scent, the scent is long lasting, the oil fast drying. Can be used as a moisturiser, massage oil or bath oil for silky smooth skin. For nourished, shiny hair apply to ends of hair overnight, shampoo and rinse. I haven't yet tried to use it on my hair, but I will be.
Contains wonderful ingredients of moisturising sweet almond oil, softening macadamia nut oil, indulgent Oriental orchid extract, nourishing rosehip oil and fragrant cedarwood oil, sweet orange and cumin.

Givenchy Le Rouge A Porter Lipstick has a lovely balm like quality to it, making it gorgeously moist on your lips. The colour is buildable which I am a fan of and allows you control of depth. The shade I have been using - No201 Rose Aristocrate is a pretty pink shade, just perfect for Spring. Of course I cannot fail to mention the stunning silver and leather case that it comes in. Very chic!

This is my first foray into Givenchy lipsticks but it certainly will not be my last....

Below I am wearing Rose Aristocrate - a really flattering nude pink that has been my go to recently.

Wednesday, 5 April 2017

A beautiful bicycle, had to belong to a lady. White and red,
attached to the front a pretty wicker basket. I admired it from my bus as I
passed it every day. Imagining it was
mine, what would I use it for? Romantic country rides with my beloved? Ambling
to work on my regular commute? Of course this was all wistful thinking, I had
never learnt to ride a bike, never even sat on one. Until one day the bike wasn’t
in its usual spot. The bike a mangled mess, the woman sprawled on the ground,
hit by the bus.

Hope you enjoyed it!

Bettina x

With thanks to Rochelle for another great picture prompt - if you wish to read more stories using this prompt - click here

Wednesday, 22 March 2017

Two pert little button noses poked through the railings, one set of eyes wide with amazement.

‘Is that it?’ whispered Katie.

‘Yup, that’s it’ Tom whispered back with certainty.

Katie wrinkled her nose ‘That’s Heaven, where God lives?’ The little girl was sceptical. She ran the tips of her fingers along the rusty gates. ‘But these gates are not pearly and where are the angels?’

Tom shrugged ‘Dunno, maybe they were pearly once.’

The door opened and out scurried two cloaked figures dressed in white. An old man, bearded, with white hair waved from a window.

Sunday, 19 March 2017

Just over three weeks ago I was sent a few items from the new Skincare Range from The White Company. Since then I have been using the items every day, trialling them out and putting them through their paces.

I have to say that I cannot pass by The White Company without popping in and especially since having children The Little White Company. I love the fresh and simple look of the products, the great home accessories and well everything really, I am a fan! So it didn't come as too much of a shock to me that they would expand into skincare, particularly as the founder is an ex beauty journalist. She has partnered with Global Skincare Experts DECIEM, who make products under the Abnormal Beauty Company.

True to The White Company branding, the packaging is white or clear, smart looking and beautifully simple. I think it has great bathroom appeal and I couldn't wait to add it to my shelf.

So what of the products

I was sent the following

Super Balm - Gentle Daily Deep Cleanser £25 for 150ml The White Company say
Cleansing is an essential starting point to achieving a flawless complexion. This luxury cleansing balm is designed to deeply, yet gently, cleanse and dissolve all traces of make-up, including mascara, while instantly boosting hydration and radiance, too. Its special balm-based formula melts upon massage, giving all skin types a healthy glow and super-soft touch. Subtly scented with lemon and petitgrain essential oils and suitable for all skin types.

My thoughts
I am going to come out and say it straight off - this was my favourite product that I tested and I would repurchase. I loved the citrus lemon scent that wasn't overpowering but hugely pleasant to use. The balm like cream comes out of the tube runny. To use you massage it into the face, it then melts into an oil and loosens up. To wash off you use a hand hot wet facial cloth, follow by rinsing with cool water.

I felt this was a really effective cleanser, I loved the way it changed from cream to oil. It removed makeup well and cleansed skin. Skin felt soft and smooth and radiant. I have noticed an improvement to my skin, absolutely. I would say this is ideal for most skin types.

Advanced Hydration Skin Perfecting Moisturiser £30 for 50ml The White Company say
This clever daily moisturiser immediately nourishes and hydrates all skin types, creating a more flawless-looking complexion by helping balance your skin’s natural moisture levels. Blended with an advanced form of hyaluronic acid, nourishing Amazonian oils and soothing aloe-vera butter, radiance and hydration are visibly improved with every use. What’s more, this non-greasy formula behaves like a primer, too, creating a matte velvet-touch base that enables your make-up to stay perfectly in place for hours. Delicately scented with our exclusive blend of lavender, rose and orange essential oils, this is a gentle yet effective moisturiser with noticeable long-term results.

My thoughts
This moisturiser doesn't have much of a scent but that suits me just fine. The only thing I would like to see would be perhaps an SPF included in it. This is a great every day moisturiser (I have combination skin) and I feel I get the best results when used twice a day as recommended. Skin feels soft, hydrated and it is a nice base for makeup (funnily enough, I wrote my thoughts before seeing what The White Company say.. and they mention the fact that it behaves like a primer, good base for makeup... Good to see I agree!)

At the moment, due to hayfever, my skin feels sensitive around the nostril area and this is delicate enough to continue to use.

Night Oil Overnight Renewal Treatment £30 for 30mlThe White Company say
Give your skin a full night of beauty sleep with this incredible facial oil. Massage a few drops of the fast-absorbing formula across the face and neck after cleansing, taking care to avoid the delicate eye area. Our enriching blend of Amazonian oils, anti-oxidants and poppy-flower extract ensure that you will wake up to deeply nourished, firmer-looking skin that feels as soft as silk and glows with health. Suitable for all skin types.

My thoughts
This oil has a nice, pleasant scent. Calming and relaxing. Just perfect for before bed. I use one squeeze of the dropper which gives enough product to massage into my face. Strangely I don't feel it absorbing into the skin. It seems to sit atop, it must me doing something however as by morning it has disappeared and skin feels nice and soft and looks pretty good too. Personally I feel using the products together I have seen an overall improvement in my skin so I am happy. I will be using these products until they are finished.

Wednesday, 8 March 2017

Whilst the picture above is not the prettiest, what it does show is just how well used this tub of Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream has been.

I have used this moisturiser every day throughout the winter months and have been delighted with the results.

Billed as a 24-hour daily facial cream.

Kiehl's say

Continuously replenishing moisture throughout the day, Ultra Facial Cream leaves skin feeling smooth, soft and hydrated. With a lightweight texture and easily absorbed formula, this facial cream is perfect for daily use. Our formula is made with Antarcticine - a Glycoprotein extracted from microorganisms sourced from sea glaciers and notable for an ability to protect skin from cold temperatures. Ultra Facial Cream is specially formulated with moisturising Squalane and water retaining Imperata Cylindrica to protect the skin throughout harsh weather conditions. These ingredients help your skin to stay hydrated for longer.

Our unique combination of ingredients helps reduce moisture loss while drawing and absorbing moisture from the air. With continuous water replenishment throughout the day, skin is smooth and healthy looking.

My thoughts

Well my skin has gone through a lot of hormonal changes in the last year after giving birth. I have suffered the worst psoriasis I have experienced. Although it sometimes lurks at the hairline, it appeared properly on my face in dry, flaky patches. I was nervous using anything on the affected skin but I am happy to report that this light cream was ideal to use, moisturising the skin but not irritating it in any way. Scent wise, it smells just like a very delicate cream if that makes any kind of sense! Pleasant.

Overall with daily use I felt that my skin felt balanced and I didn't suffer from any dry or oily patches.It just feels lovely - soft and well hydrated. A great start for the rest of my skincare and makeup. A fabulous every day moisturiser, non greasy and fast absorbing.

Thursday, 2 March 2017

Pamper time is such a rarity at the moment so I adore products that at least make me feel pampered in the short time that I have. I couldn't wait to share this review of Elemis British Botanical Shower Cream as it fulfills every criteria I look for in a skincare product.

Elemis say
Harnessing the powerhouse of ingredients grown in the idyllic British countryside, this aromatic shower cream is expertly blended with soothing Lavender, Chamomile and uplifting Geranium and Palmarosa. Omega-rich Echium oil works to hydrate and nourish the skin, whilst vitamin and mineral rich organic Oats and Rosemary gently cleanse the skin, for a truly restorative in-shower experience.

My thoughts
To be honest I was quite surprised how much I liked this shower cream. Regular readers know that I am not a fan of Lavender scents particularly. However, although it lends itself heavily on the ingredient the end result is a far more appealing English Garden/Countryside floral scent. The cream is a runny non lathering cream that feels so gentle, non irritating and soothing on the body. The scent is calming, and actually, I totally agree with the description from Elemis, it really does feel like it is restoring body, skin and mind. Skin is left feeling soft, silky and cleansed to perfection.

So it gets a huge thumbs up from me and a definite purchase in future.

Thursday, 16 February 2017

'Don't smoke' she sighed, stamping out my ciggie. ‘Don't even think about drinking' she nagged, whilst tipping the bottle of wine down the sink. Words were never going to stop me. It was the cool thing to do at school and I desperately wanted to fit in. I had a lot to live up to.

Oscar winning. My mother, the successful dressmaker, designer extraordinaire. Miss Perfect. Well not so perfect, her husband, my dad, left her for a model. Turns out she was the alcohol swilling, chain smoking bitch. The mannequin's head? Based on the woman he left her for.

The tin they come in is just so pretty and wonderfully illustrated. The biscuits themselves are crunchy enough to dip in your tea if you so feel inclined. In fact I brought out the Royal Albert China specially to indulge in a special afternoon tea as I knew the occasion demanded it. I felt incredibly decadent whilst daintily sipping on my tea and biting into these moreish buttery biscuits.

I am a huge, huge fan of anything rose so these rose and white chocolate biscuits grabbed my attention instantly and they didn't disappoint. These traditionally baked English biscuits are made with crystallised rose petals and pieces of white chocolate. The result is a delicate rose taste from the the perfumed flowers and the white chocolate is smooth and creamy to tantalize the taste buds with this truly romantic foodie gift.

Delicious limited edition biscuits that are the perfect addition to afternoon tea. Massive thumbs up from me.